RM Sotheby’s to Auction One-of-One RUF CTR1 “Redbird”

Summary

• RM Sotheby’s to auction a one-off 1989 RUF CTR1 Lightweight “Redbird” at Monterey Car Week, estimated at $4.5M–$5M USD
• “Redbird” is the only CTR finished in Bordeaux Red and was previously Alois Ruf’s personal car
• Features include a matching-numbers twin-turbo flat-six, custom RUF upgrades and fewer than 19,000 km on the odometer

RM Sotheby’s is set to offer one of the rarest RUF-built machines ever produced: the 1989 CTR1 Lightweight “Redbird.” Estimated to fetch as much as $5,000,000 USD, this exceptional example is one of only six Lightweights built and the only one finished in a bespoke Bordeaux Red paint-to-sample color. It was originally commissioned by a German doctor in direct consultation with Alois Ruf and later used personally by Ruf himself.

Known for outpacing the Ferrari F40 and Porsche 959, the CTR1 rose to global fame in the late ’80s, cemented by its 211-mph top speed and viral Nürburgring driving footage. Lightweight variants like Redbird shaved off mass with aluminum panels, Clubsport seats and minimal creature comforts, though this car added unique luxuries like power windows, custom telemetry and heated glass. A Pfaffenhausen hood badge, chrome trim and silver-finished wheels further set this one-off apart.

With fewer than 19,000 kms (roughly 11,745 miles) on the odometer, Redbird boasts a rich provenance, complete with a matching-numbers twin-turbo 3.4L flat-six, extensive documentation and a trail of notable European collectors. It was upgraded over time by RUF with a G50 transaxle and a refined braking system. Offered now from a prominent American collection, this CTR1 Lightweight is not only among the rarest RUFs ever made but also one of the most tastefully customized, making it a special opportunity for collectors of analog performance icons. Bidding for the Redbird kicks off on August 16 as part of RM Sotheby’s Monterey Sale.